6 Types of CNC Machines a Complete Guide
When it comes to precision manufacturing, CNC machines are one of the most preferred and high-standard appliances. Because of the speed, accuracy, and ability to hold tight tolerances, it has become the most preferred choice. It’s no surprise that this process is critical to producing many products we use every day.
What is a CNC machine?
CNC machining is when factory machinery and tools are moved according to pre-programmed computer software. In less time, manufacturers can produce parts, reduce waste, and eliminate the risk of human error with CNC machines.
CNC machine tool systems can be classified in 2 ways:
1. Open-loop
2. Closed-loop
It depends on the control system adopted for axis motion control.
Now that you know about CNC machines, You need to understand how many types of CNC machines there are.
Types of CNC Machine tools
CNC Lathe Machine
Because of their fast and accurate operation, Lathe CNC machines are distinguished by their ability to turn materials during operation. In a CNC lathe the workpiece rotates about its own axis of rotation to perform various operations such as cutting, step turning, threading, knurling, drilling, deformation, facing, and turning, with stationary tools. In this manner, the CNC lathe machines can handle a wide variety of tools and machining techniques. In lathe machines, there are two principal axes commonly used i.e. X, Z. but in special cases, applications with the Y axis and live tools machines are also available.
CNC Milling Machine
The milling is an operation that performs the removal of material from a workpiece by means of a rotating cutter. The cutter is typically a milling cutter, a cutting tool with multiple cutting points. Milling cutters are held in a milling machine spindle and rotate around a vertical or horizontal axis as per the requirement to produce the desired profile on the workpiece. Mainly milling machine is classified in the following ways
- According to the position of the tool and workpiece i.e. HMC, VMC, UMC and
- According to the number of axis 3 Axis, 3+1 Axis, 4 Axis, 3+2 Axis, and Simultaneous 5 Axis.
The CNC machine performs the operations by using the program G, M & Other codes.
CNC Grinding Machine
If you want to do finishing on your component almost all solutions go towards Grinding Operation. It is generally called as fine machining of removing materials from the surface usually 0.25-0.50 mm in most of the operations through the use of a grinding wheel. Grinding wheels are highly useful in removing extra unwanted metal for plenty of purposes like accuracy and aesthetics. CNC grinding machines can cut metal precisely and give your product a detailed finish by using programming language by rotating the grinding wheel, CNC grinding machines can also create fine cylindrical pieces.
CNC Laser Cutting Machine
The CNC machine with a laser helps in cutting hard materials effortlessly, as instead of a plasma torch, a laser beam is used to perform this chore. Lasers might offer high accuracy, but they are not as productive as plasma torches.
CNC Electric Discharge Machine
These are also called spark CNC machines, as they use electric sparks to shape materials. Electrical discharge has a transient effect, which means it can degrade the elements it is presented with.
5-axes CNC machine
As the name says, this CNC machine has a total of five axes. It has three axes (X, Y, and Z), and any tool’s cutting operation is done in three directions, but two additional axes (A and B) were added, making five axes. CNC machines with rotary axes can produce sculptures.
Are there any good CNC machine manufacturers in India?
There are many, but you need to pick one that’s best for you. Phillips is one of the largest and best suppliers of state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment globally. They carry the most profound machines.
Also Read: What is a CNC Machine and How Does it Work?